President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged members of the 10th National Assembly (NASS) to swiftly embark on their responsibilities, emphasizing the Nigerian people’s need for progressive good governance. In an official statement released to the press on Tuesday, Tinubu extended his congratulations to Senator Godswill Akpabio, who was elected as the Senate President, and Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, who assumed the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“The election of Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON and Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abbas as the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 10th National Assembly is a good development, I heartily congratulate them and also rejoice with the new Deputy Senate President, Jibril Barau and House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu for their well-deserved victories.” Tinubu said.
The President described the election of Akpabio and Abbas as a positive development and expressed his joy for Deputy Senate President Jibril Barau and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu on their well-deserved victories. Recognizing the honor and immense responsibility that comes with being elected as presiding officers and leading the National Assembly, Tinubu conveyed his trust in their ability to justify the confidence placed in them by their fellow members and the Nigerian populace.
The President also acknowledged the participation of Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Honourable Idris Wase, and Honourable Aminu Jaji in the leadership election, extending his best wishes for their successful tenure in the 10th National Assembly. Tinubu further urged the newly elected officials to maintain the same level of enthusiasm they demonstrated during the leadership contest while fulfilling their duties to their constituents and the nation.
“We have all been called upon and accepted the responsibility to diligently and faithfully serve our fatherland with the oath we took,” Tinubu stated.
Emphasizing the importance of service to the country, Tinubu extended his congratulations to all members of the National Assembly, irrespective of party affiliation, as they embarked on their roles in the service of the Nigerian people. He stressed the need for lawmakers to enact laws and carry out oversight duties that would enhance government performance and improve the quality of life for Nigerians. While acknowledging that disagreements may arise, Tinubu emphasized that these should not stem from malice or ill-will but rather from a commitment to strengthen the institution of the National Assembly and advance the interests of the country.
Highlighting the expectations of the Nigerian people for a government that addresses economic burdens and ensures security, Tinubu underscored the need for collaboration and dedication to achieve progress and eliminate barriers hindering development. He stressed the urgency of seizing this opportunity and making the next four years count in meeting the aspirations of Nigerians for progressive good governance.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to partnering in the pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity for Nigeria. He called upon the leadership of the 10th National Assembly and all members to join him on this journey of governance, working together for the betterment of the country.
“Our people look up to us to change the fortune of our country for good and remove all barriers that impede progress. All of these we can make happen with dedication and commitment. We can only achieve all the good things we promised during our campaigns when we work together in harmony but with respect for our respective prerogatives and in the best interest of our country. Justifiably, our people want more from their government. They truly deserve progressive good governance that will improve their standards of living. We must give them our best. I will remain a partner in progress for peace, stability and prosperity of Nigeria. I count on the leadership of the 10th National Assembly and all members to work and walk with me on this governmental journey,” the president stated.
In the election results, Senator Godswill Akpabio emerged as the 10th President of the Senate, defeating Senator Abdulaziz Yari with a vote count of 63 against 46. Barau of APC Kano North assumed the position of Deputy Senate President unopposed. In the House of Representatives, Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abbas secured the position of Speaker with 353 votes, while Benjamin Kalu was elected as the Deputy Speaker for the 10th National Assembly, representing Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State.
